Word Origin & History

torment late 13c., "inflicting of torture," also "state of great suffering," from O.Fr. tourment (11c.), from L. tormentum "twisted sling, rack," related to torquere "to twist" (see thwart). The verb is first recorded late 13c., from O.Fr. tormenter (12c.).

Example Sentences for tormenting

His condition might have been tormented and tormenting--it might appear wearily obnoxious.

It is tormenting when you have a good mind and you can't crack it.

His story is a simple human tragedy, but beyond that, it provides unique historical insight into a tormenting war.

Climate change-today's big threat-seems to have had a long history of tormenting our species.

Veterans are tormenting rookies in the bullpen by making them carry garish, unmanly backpacks onto the field.

Legislation alone will not stop every bully from physically or verbally tormenting a peer.

Smaller insects likely live in constant fear of these tormenting aggressors.